5,350 acts of illegal settler violence against Palestinians over past decade
Israeli settlers fire at Palestinians (unseen) while an Israeli soldier (L) stands by during clashes in the town of Huwara in the occupied West Bank on October 13, 2022. (AFP Photo)
Over the past 10 years, illegal Israeli settlers have carried out more than 5,350 violent acts against Palestinians and their property in the occupied West Bank, according to a new report released by the Palestine Liberation Organization’s National Bureau for Land Defense and Settlement Resistance.
The report details a wide array of violations, including stone-throwing, arson attacks, the destruction of olive trees, and forced displacement of Palestinians. The report also highlights a sharp rise in gun violence incidents by settlers, especially after October 7, 2023.
The violence against Palestinians by illegal settlers has intensified during Israel’s military operations in Gaza. Settler violence is often seen as an extension of Israel’s broader policy in the occupied West Bank.
The rise in attacks is exacerbating tensions in the region, with thousands of Palestinians displaced and killed by both settlers and Israeli forces.
The international community is under increasing pressure to address these violations, especially following the International Court of Justice’s ruling that Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories is illegal.
Background
The ongoing violence comes amid an intensified military offensive by Israel in the West Bank, which has killed over 70 Palestinians since January 21.
The violence has further escalated following Israel’s renewed airstrikes on Gaza that began on March 18, resulting in over 700 Palestinian deaths.
The International Court of Justice declared Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories illegal in July, calling for the evacuation of all settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
Details:
- Settler violations: Over 5,350 attacks have been carried out by Israeli settlers, including stone-throwing, arson, destruction of olive trees, and livestock killings.
- Gun violence: There has been a notable increase in gun violence by illegal settlers, particularly since October 2023.
- Testimonies: Israeli soldiers have provided testimonies showing that illegal settlers are actively involved in enforcing military rule and influencing decisions within the Israeli army.
- Northern West Bank: Most attacks by settlers have been concentrated in the Nablus governorate, with 300 incidents, followed by Hebron and Ramallah.
- Israeli Military Offensive: Israel’s military offensive in the northern West Bank has killed over 70 Palestinians since January and displaced thousands.
